The Baptism of Dean Emerson on July 31, 2010!

In 2007, I baptized Nora Skye, daughter of Laura and Sam, in my garden. It was a sweet ceremony and Nora was only a month old. Then later on, I officiated the wedding of Laura's mother, Nancy, and her husband, Verne. So, when Laura contacted me recently with news that she and Sam had a new baby boy, Dean, and they wanted to do a baptism ceremony, I was so excited to get to see everyone again! So, that Saturday morning we gathered at Sam and Laura's home in S. Raleigh for this sweet occasion.

This is Nora. She is now 3 years and 4 months old and quite an independent spirit! I don't think she sat still the whole time I was there and was having a lot of fun with all the grandparents and a few other children around.

And here is sweet Dean in his mother's arms. He is a solid boy and was simply taking all the action in. He seemed to be an "old soul" with such wise eyes to be only two months old.

The ceremony was on Laura and Sam's screened in back porch overlooking a wooded area. It was a pleasant cool July morning that later turned into a rainy day. Nora was hiding behind her mother after getting a case of the "shies!"  I lit a Source Candle representing the presence of God and from that flame then Sam and Laura lit a candle for Dean and one for Nora.We were also fortunate to have not only all Dean's grandparents present but also his great grandmother, too.

The sprinkling of water on Dean's head for the Baptism ritual. Babies never mind me doing that! He was so contented.

"May Dean Emerson bring joy to his parents, siblings, grandparents, family and friends. May God look down and bless this child and watch over him throughout his life and continue to help keep him safe, healthy and happy. May he be blessed with wisdom and self confidence to become a great leader and to continue his spiritual journey through the eyes of God."

 It was good to see Nancy and Verne and still so happily married! Laura and Sam both said they don't plan for any more children so I told Nancy and Verne they would have to have renewal of vows ceremony in a few years so we can get together again! Many blessings, everyone!